Speedwaysales.com has the Toro Super Recycler Lawn Mower (#20057) for $649.99 minus a $75 mail-in rebate for a grand total of $574.99 shipped. Cheapest I see it elsewhere is $766.80.

I've been looking for a new push mower and this one seems to get great reviews all around, including a high rating from Consumer Reports.

Link

They don't even mention the engine's horsepower. My 20+ year old $69 Murray self-propelled 22" cut is still going strong.

Gak that is expensive.

Is it really worth twice the price of a Toro 20017?

That's a serious question, I'm not trying to be a Smart A--. I just don't see off the bat how it's worth that much. Any lawnmower afficianado here that can explain it?

With over an acre, if I were to get above to the $600 range I would be thinking riding mower would be worth $1300 before I spent $600 on a walk behind.

W

Toddler said:The Toro at Home Depot looks pretty sweet...it has an Atomic® Blade.

Honestly, I can't imagine why that one wouldn't be just as good. Somebody will be quick to say that it won't last half as long, but even if that's true, it costs half as much.

There are some major differences. The SR series has a cast aluminum deck versus a steel deck, a MUCH quieter engine and 3 more years of warranty. Thene there is the little things like grease fittings on the rear axle, heavier construction, and yes, a better cut . . . it takes more than a blade to get a thorough mulch cut.

The SR is basically a commercial quality unit with a VERY slight step down in engine from the Kawasaki's they use in the commercial models. The home depot is overpriced in that it is made from the same components as the stuff at Sears and Wal*Mart . . . it's just painted nicer.

deathwish said:There are some major differences. The SR series has a cast aluminum deck versus a steel deck, a MUCH quieter engine and 3 more years of warranty. Thene there is the little things like grease fittings on the rear axle, heavier construction, and yes, a better cut . . . it takes more than a blade to get a thorough mulch cut.

Okay, I could see this if I were out cutting lawns in the suburbs for a living, or had a hangup about how my grass looks.

But since I cut the grass about six times a year, and no matter how "better the cut is" ($300 better?) it will still all look the same after a week, I think I will take the savings.

I can see how the $600 model could be worth it though if it is someone's thing. I figure everyone has there hobbies and things that make them happy, and if you like a nice looking lawn or do a lot of pushing then I say go for it and enjoy

Of course, I hope this is a better engine than the Intek. The aluminum deck is a big plus too.

W

Sometimes HD has some hondas that got returned out front. I sold my 13 yr old honda to a friend and it still works great.

I had a top-end Toro years ago - there is a world of difference for those of us who mow 2-3 times a week. The one I had used a Suzuki OVC engine, which was basically a Honda clone. Had electric start that even had a built-in charging system. Yet it started so easy, I didn't need it.

There was one serious flaw with it though, the mower was so heavy that the rear wheel drive system was problematic, and the wheel adjusters were a cronic nightmare. I gave that $750 lawn mower away, bought a nice lightweight 2 cycle Lawnboy (lower grade with the steel deck - but nice otherwise) and use it for trimming. I also upgraded to a rider as I do have a large lawn. Mind you, I went with a decent Wheel Horse (Toro), so I don't have a thing against the brand.

If you mow a lot, once you own or use a truly decent mower - you'll be spoiled!

Stay far,far away from the Toro TimeCutter Zero turns, man I have had nothing but problems and Corporate won't listen. Don't know if this particular model is any good, but I will never buy Toro again. FWIW

For those who are curious, the motor is a 6.75 HP 4-cycle Briggs & Stratton OHV.

RDMustang1 said:Is the 20057 worth $95 more than the 20054?

Yes, however it's more a matter of if YOU need the extra features.

It adds the OHV engine and the traction assist handle (the latter useful for hilly or sloping yards) . . . if you plan to put a lot of hours on it (say, more than 10-15 a month), the OHV engine with the oil filter (and longer service interval) is worth it alone . . . the assist handle OTOH can be bought as an accessory for $30.